Since the London 2012 cycle race passed through the county, the sport has enjoyed a boom across the country.

But it is not the first time roads across the UK have been graced by speeding cyclists.

Back in the 1950s and 60s, bicycle racing was a well-supported sport and photographer Bernard Thompson was on hand to capture every moment perfectly.

Along with capturing some of the world famous riders, such as Beryl Burton and Tom Simpson, Thompson recorded all the details of the thriving scene they passed.

Among the scenes captured are passing “gentlemen of the road” at early morning time trials, exhausted competitors post-race and a tender good luck kiss between a wife and a racer at the starting line.

But these photos went somewhat unnoticed, with cycling magazines of the time only publishing Thompson’s tightly cropped racing shots.

Now Thompson’s unusual images, first shown in Rouleur magazine, will be displayed for photography lovers and cycling enthusiasts to see at the Riverhouse Barn.

Forgotten Photos by Bernard Thompson; Riverhouse Barn, Manor Road, Walton; June 18 to 29, Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm, Sunday 2.30pm to 4.30pm; free courtesy of Rouleur magazine; 01932 253354 or visit riverhousebarn.co.uk.